Patient feedback reflects a mixed experience with the practice. Many patients praise the courtesy, professionalism, and compassionate approach of clinical staff, noting welcoming reception experiences and responsive doctors who provide thorough medical attention. The digital platform accessibility and efficient service delivery are highlighted positively, with particular appreciation for the AskMyGP system and on-site pharmacy facilities.
However, significant concerns emerge around appointment access and waiting experiences. Patients report prolonged delays in securing appointments, with some facing three-week waits, alongside persistent phone system issues that create barriers to booking. Administrative processes are frequently described as dismissive and bureaucratic, with some patients experiencing inadequate communication and lack of continuity of care. Staff turnover challenges are acknowledged, and a small number of patients report encountering dismissive attitudes during interactions.
While the practice demonstrates genuine commitment to patient welfare through responsive care and efficient specialist referrals, the operational challenges around appointment availability and phone accessibility remain consistent frustrations. The reception environment is generally welcoming, though administrative interactions occasionally lack the compassion evident in clinical consultations.
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Claim & Manage ProfileShows how often this practice responds to patient reviews and feedback.
Patient feedback reflects a mixed experience with the practice. Many patients praise the courtesy, professionalism, and compassionate approach of clinical staff, noting welcoming reception experiences and responsive doctors who provide thorough medical attention. The digital platform accessibility and efficient service delivery are highlighted positively, with particular appreciation for the AskMyGP system and on-site pharmacy facilities.
However, significant concerns emerge around appointment access and waiting experiences. Patients report prolonged delays in securing appointments, with some facing three-week waits, alongside persistent phone system issues that create barriers to booking. Administrative processes are frequently described as dismissive and bureaucratic, with some patients experiencing inadequate communication and lack of continuity of care. Staff turnover challenges are acknowledged, and a small number of patients report encountering dismissive attitudes during interactions.
While the practice demonstrates genuine commitment to patient welfare through responsive care and efficient specialist referrals, the operational challenges around appointment availability and phone accessibility remain consistent frustrations. The reception environment is generally welcoming, though administrative interactions occasionally lack the compassion evident in clinical consultations.
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Cleanliness
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Respect
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Naomi H.
4 years ago
Excellent!
Compassionate care through years of health challenges
Throughout my two-decade journey with a long-term health issue, I've consulted numerous general practitioners due to relocating multiple times. The entire staff at St Mary's surgery - from front desk personnel to nursing and medical professionals - have been truly exceptional. Like many healthcare providers during the COVID-19 pandemic, they've maintained an outstanding level of care despite incredibly difficult circumstances. While I recognize that some patients might experience occasional challenges, this medical team consistently demonstrates genuine commitment to helping patients and, crucially, they genuinely listen - a quality not always found in every doctor-patient relationship. I feel profound appreciation for the compassionate and dedicated service they consistently deliver.
Justine F.
4 years ago
Excellent!
Lifesaving care from compassionate medical professionals
My kidney cancer was caught at an incredibly early stage because my doctor was persistently thorough and wouldn't rest until she uncovered the issue. The entire staff has been exceptional. I'm truly baffled by anyone who claims to have had a negative encounter here. Throughout this challenging pandemic, they've been nothing short of outstanding. Those who have been disrespectful or hostile should be ashamed of themselves.
Kelly B.
4 years ago
Excellent!
Exceptional healthcare service with friendly and efficient staff
I've been registered with multiple medical practices in Cambridge, and this surgery stands out as the absolute best. Their askmyGP digital platform ensures you receive a response, consultation, or medical intervention within 24 hours. Securing an appointment has never been an issue for me. The reception staff are consistently warm and supportive, while the physicians demonstrate exceptional professionalism and genuine compassion. I cannot emphasize enough how highly I endorse this practice.
Annabel S.
4 years ago
Excellent!
Compassionate care that truly makes a difference
Having originated from Suffolk, I quickly recognized the superior quality of this medical practice. Admittedly, it hasn't been entirely smooth since the pandemic... the phone system, same-day appointment scheduling, and needing to consult your GP can be quite exasperating... However, the reason I awarded them 5 stars is that this group of healthcare professionals, from doctors to receptionists, appear genuinely compassionate. They're not merely performing a job; they're sincerely striving to provide assistance... even when patients make it challenging. And I believe that deserves genuine recognition.
Chris J.
4 years ago
Excellent!
Professional and helpful medical service
Throughout recent months, I've found myself reaching out to the medical practice quite frequently. On each interaction, I've been greeted with utmost professionalism and politeness. Despite the evident strain on their entire system, they manage to respond promptly and efficiently. There was a single instance when my call was disconnected, which was admittedly irritating, but considering the overall excellent service I've received, it's hardly worth making a fuss about.
Adenis R.
4 years ago
Great!
Efficient service with friendly staff at local surgery
I'm puzzled by the critical feedback circulating about this practice. Having been a patient for more than 12 months, I've consistently experienced excellent service. Their online booking system is convenient, and I appreciate being able to communicate with my doctor through their mobile app. Prescription collection has been smooth and hassle-free. When I inquired about my COVID-19 vaccination, the reception staff were helpful, taking the time to find precise answers when they were initially uncertain. It seems the complainers are likely expecting an unrealistic level of treatment, typical of the overly demanding attitude prevalent in Ely. Compared to other medical practices, this is a solid healthcare provider. The only drawback is occasionally extended waiting periods, which prevents me from awarding a perfect 5-star rating.
Darren Y.
5 years ago
Excellent!
Compassionate support through thick and thin
Always been there for me during my health challenges, and they're currently providing invaluable assistance with a case I'm dealing with right now
Ece E.
5 years ago
Excellent!
Incredible service that always goes above and beyond
The entire team is exceptional. I can contact them at my convenience. Despite their busy schedule, they consistently maintain a helpful and pleasant demeanor. I'm thoroughly satisfied with my association with them. My sincere appreciation goes out to them.
Ironside65 I.
5 years ago
Bad!
Terrible customer service drives me crazy
Oh my goodness, what a nerve-wracking experience - this phone call is definitely not helping my blood pressure!
Mark D.
5 years ago
Bad!
Frustrating healthcare experience at neighborhood clinic
Abysmal customer experience. During registration, they insisted I download paperwork rather than directly providing it and demanded unnecessary documentation. After months of repeated visits, my essential medications remain unresolved, with consistently incorrect prescriptions. When I requested a medical certificate, they flatly refused, claiming they don't handle such documents. As usual, their complete indifference leaves patients enraged and feeling threatened with removal from their patient list. An absolutely dreadful facility located right beside St Mary's church.
Claire N.
5 years ago
Excellent!
Smooth and speedy flu shot experience today
Incredibly smooth and well-coordinated flu vaccination event on Saturday, September 26th. The process was quick, streamlined, and followed a seamless one-way flow from initial welcome to final departure through the courtyard. Heartfelt appreciation to the entire team involved.
Angela R.
5 years ago
Bad!
Frustrating customer service waste of precious time
Started at rank 7 in the phone queue, dropped to position 1 in just 14 minutes, only to be informed that my call couldn't be completed and I should try again later. Completely unacceptable service.
Esther S.
6 years ago
Great!
Great service despite nhs resource challenges
They consistently provide reliable service and effectively address any issues. There can be a slight delay occasionally, but it's the NHS, and one must be understanding given its financial constraints.
Jenny J.
6 years ago
Excellent!
Fantastic medical care at st marys surgery
This medical practice is exceptional. I've compared it to healthcare facilities across London, Norfolk, and Scotland, having been a patient here for four years and attending numerous appointments with multiple physicians. Every doctor I encountered was attentive, comprehensive, and ensured my comfort. Medical tests and referrals were processed efficiently. While securing appointments with specific doctors can be challenging - a nationwide issue - St Marys offers an excellent triage process and a user-friendly online booking system. Appointments are released in batches, and extended evening hours until around 7:30pm make scheduling more convenient compared to other practices. The on-site dispensary and pharmacy are particularly beneficial for patients requiring regular medications. I find some previous reviews frustratingly misleading. Many one-star ratings stem from isolated incidents like phone communication issues or complaints about specific staff members, which seems unfair when the doctors themselves are praised. Healthcare facility reviews should be balanced and thoughtful, recognizing their potential impact on patients' medical choices. While low ratings are acceptable, they should be substantiated with clear, comprehensive explanations rather than based on a single negative experience - something that could occur at any medical practice.
Kent H.
7 years ago
Bad!
Bureaucratic nightmare trumps patient care at clinic
The staff's demeanor makes you feel like an unwelcome burden, even when facing legitimate health concerns. Beyond the physicians, the entire team appears consumed by administrative tasks, seemingly neglecting the human element of patient care. Interacting with the public is inherently complex, but within a medical setting, you're engaging with individuals who are fundamentally vulnerable due to their health needs. If your primary objective as a staff member is mechanically processing paperwork and moving 'cases' through a system, you would be better suited to an industrial environment where such rigid procedural focus won't directly affect people who are desperately seeking compassion and understanding during challenging moments.
Alin R.
7 years ago
Bad!
Terrible service and rude staff at gp surgery
Generally challenging to interact with. Administrative personnel can come across as quite discourteous. They rejected my pregnant wife's fluid sample, which was originally arranged through her midwife. They dismissed her and redirected her to a triage call (citing a new system) just so she could submit a sample already pre-approved by NHS for her pregnancy. While the medical professionals might be competent, the administrative staff is decidedly subpar. I frequently find myself contemplating managing health concerns independently rather than navigating their bureaucracy. Their professionalism is disappointingly low, and they seem to have forgotten they represent the NHS, an organization meant to care for people, not a rigid private enterprise with arbitrary rules. Their treatment of a pregnant woman fundamentally contradicts the core purpose of a GP surgery. They exhibit a cold, transactional approach more reminiscent of a sales environment than a healthcare service committed to patient welfare. Their attitude suggests a complete disconnection from their primary mission of patient care.
Cm Z.
7 years ago
Bad!
Terrible customer service with endless waiting time
I attempted to schedule an appointment via phone, but even though I was first in line, the hold time dragged on for three minutes with absolutely no one answering my call!
Allan H.
7 years ago
Excellent!
Dedicated staff make st mary's medical practice shine
Like any bustling medical facility (and St. Mary's is certainly that), scheduling appointments can be challenging. The surgery does implement a triage system to prioritize urgent medical needs and ensure quick access to doctors. I consistently observe that a significant number of appointments—typically in the hundreds—are missed by patients who fail to cancel or notify the practice. Such inconsiderate behavior ultimately disrupts the appointment system and creates difficulties for other patients. A small amount of consideration could greatly improve appointment availability for everyone. Having utilized this practice extensively due to my various health conditions, I've noticed that some previous reviews have been less favorable. While their experiences may differ from mine, I can honestly say that throughout numerous visits and interactions with multiple doctors at St. Mary's, I've encountered very few issues. When occasional problems have arisen, the staff has been exceptionally responsive and committed to resolving them satisfactorily. It's evident that general practitioners and their practices are experiencing immense professional strain, and we should remain mindful of this context when minor inconveniences occur. Ultimately, St. Mary's represents an outstanding medical practice, staffed by compassionate professionals who navigate challenging circumstances with remarkable skill and dedication. I am thoroughly satisfied with the care and service provided here.
Melanie H.
7 years ago
Bad!
Terrible service ruins pharmacy's otherwise great reputation
The pharmacist working in that department consistently displays a terrible attitude and lacks any semblance of customer service. During her last visit, she was so harsh that she reduced my mother to tears. Fortunately, the remaining staff members are quite professional and pleasant.
Rob B.
7 years ago
Excellent!
Lifesaver clinic with compassionate and expert care
Top-notch medical facility for anyone feeling under the weather